NEWS: REGISTRATIONS are open for MODULE 2, ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY starting in AUGUST, 2017 | OPEN DAYS (09h30-15h00): 7th, 14th, 21st July 2017

Programme Criteria

Qualification requirement

The Allied Health Professions Act (Act no. 63 of 1982, as amended) sets a minimum requirement for a qualification allowing for full registration as a Therapeutic Reflexologist; namely a 240 credits, NQF level 5, Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology.

Accreditations

The International Academy of Reflexology and Meridian Therapy is registered by the Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET) as a private higher education institution offering a Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology.

The programme is accredited by the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC) of the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and listed with the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA), ID no. 36204.

Upon successful completion of the qualification, graduates can register themselves with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) as a therapist and are able to start their own Reflexology practice.

A modular, credit-based system

The full diploma programme offered by the International Academy of Reflexology & Meridian Therapy has been divided into 4 individual modules (two modules per academic year).

Each module is accredited with a number of credits based on the amount of notional hours a student should engage in order to achieve competence in the knowledge and skills expected of them.

Rule of credit accumulation

In order to receive a diploma, all the modules within the programme must be completed, unless an Exemption and/or Recognised Prior Learning has been granted.

Module Overview

MODULE 1 - REFLEXOLOGY

Course 1: Theoretical & Practical Application of Reflexology

History of Reflexology
Reflexology is an ancient science which dates as far back as ancient
China, Egypt, Japan, Korea and India. In modern times, a form of
Reflexology was known and practiced in Europe as far back as the 14th
century. Notable physicians who greatly contributed to the history of
Reflexology include Dr William Fitzgerald, Dr H. Bressler and Dr Joseph
Shelby Riley. Later a Physiotherapist, Eunice Ingham, vastly contributed
to modern Reflexology through persistent research and promotion of
Reflexology, both to the medical community and the general public.
Reflexology was ultimately noted as an alternative approach to healing.

On completion of this subject, you will understand the origin of
Reflexology as a therapy. You will discuss the history of Reflexology
and the contributions of both the ancient and modern cultures. You will
be also be introduced to the history of Reflexology in South Africa
including the statutory registration of Reflexology and the history of
The International Academy of Reflexology & Meridian Therapy (IARAMT)
as a registered Higher Education Institute.

Principles of Reflexology
Reflexology is a fairly new field of practice in Western society.
Consequently, a large number of people do not have an understanding
of this modality or its role in health maintenance and assisting one
to achieve a balanced lifestyle.This subject offers a complete
introduction to Reflexology including information about the general
and specific principles, energy pathways (Meridians) and functions of
the human body systems and various anatomical areas of the body.

Mapping the Reflexes
To understand Reflexology it is necessary to comprehend that the feet
represent a microcosm or mini-map of the whole body and its organs. For
each organ there are corresponding reflexes on the feet. To understand
the positions of the reflexes, the foot must be divided into the
corresponding anatomical parts and the reflexes indicated accordingly.
You will investigate the above concepts and apply the knowledge on
diagrams and case studies. In the end you be able to connect all the
reflexes on the feet with their corresponding organs and comprehend
the interaction between them.

Practical Application of Reflexology
By this stage you are set to acquire, develop and master the techniques
and procedures that will enable you to perform a Reflexology treatment.
You have learnt where the reflexes are positioned and during this subject
you will master certain techniques and procedures that will enable you to
massage and stimulate the reflexes.

During this subject you will cover all aspects of performing a Reflexology
treatment, including preparation for a treatment, personal and patient
hygiene, identifying and analysing your responsibilities towards your
patients, performing a correct seating position, providing information
about reflex sensitivity and treatment reactions, performing and describing
each grip and technique and in the end be able to perform a complete
Reflexology treatment.

Course 2: Patient Care

AHPCSA Act and Regulations
Reflexology received recognition in South Africa as a health science
profession when the Allied Health Professions Act of 1982 was amended in
2000. On completion of this subject, you will be able to identify and
implement aspects of the Allied Health Professions Act (Act 63 of 1982, as
amended) that are relative to Reflexology and its practice, establish and
maintain professional relationships and standards through a code of ethics
and in line with a Scope of Practice (SOP), and demonstrate an awareness of
patient rights and confidentiality.

Patient Care
A practicing Reflexologist’s success will largely be due to a combination of
skills and a caring attitude towards their patients. It is evidenced by the
way of receiving patients, taking down a case history record, explaining
reactions to treatments and assuming the responsibility of a therapist.

According to the Patient’s Rights Charter, therapists are required to
keep accurate, comprehensive and complete records for each and every
patient. The benefits thereof are numerous. First and foremost the
therapist will be able to pick up on any contra-indications and conditions
that should be treated with care when taking down the initial case history.
It safeguards both the therapist, as well as the patient, as it can be used
to settle any disputes that may arise at any point in time. It also serves
as a baseline for follow-up treatments as the therapist can monitor the
patient’s progress and whether or not treatment is benefiting the patient
over a period of time.

MODULE 2 - ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

Course 1: Anatomical & Physiological Functioning of the Body

Anatomy and Physiology are complementary sciences that allow one to
study, classify and understand body structures and functions. Anatomy is the
study of the structure and shape of the body, and its individual parts and
their relationship to one another. Physiology is the study of how the body
and its parts work or function. The function can never be separated from
the structure and therefore to truly understand the human body, Anatomy and
Physiology must be studied together.

This intensive course methodically covers each of the body systems, e.g.
the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Many learners are intimidated
at the prospect of having to study Anatomy and Physiology, whereas others
are fascinated about the structure and functioning of the human body and
thoroughly enjoy this subject.

MODULE 3 - THERAPEUTIC REFLEXOLOGY

Course 1: Research Methodology

It is impossible to distance ourselves in our daily lives today from
research in one form or another. Almost everything we use is based on some
sort of scientific research. It is important to know that all scientific
knowledge, even if it is elementary in nature, is based on research.

Learners need to independently seek answers to certain health related
problems. In order to do so there are a variety of methods, procedures and
techniques that can be used. Although it is impossible to prescribe a
single method to be used in a research project, this course will teach you
the basics concepts of research and how to write a research proposal.

Course 2: Conditions and Structure of Feet

The human foot is an architectural masterpiece. Although they are a
fraction of the size of the body, the feet balance, support and transport
the entire body weight. The foot has lost some ground in the popularity
stakes over the years, however, with increased interest in holistic healing
practices comes the realisation that feet play a fundamental role in health
and well-being. This course will introduce you to the various conditions
and disorders of the feet.

Foot deformities and irregularities can also affect the reflexes in the
feet (Reflexology) and the Meridians on which they manifest. This can in
turn affect the corresponding body parts by causing congestion in energy
flow along these Meridians.

Course 3: Pathophysiology using Chinese Meridian Philosophy

The concept of energy channels is a central point of many alternative
therapies such as Acupuncture and Reflexology. Congestions along these
energy channels are caused by blockages which in turn will manifest
themselves as various diseases and ailments throughout the body.

A clear understanding of how these congestions can manifest in the body,
together with typical symptoms warning us that the body is no longer in a
state of homeostasis, will aid us in the understanding of the root causes
of “disease”.

The principles and philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are
based on the premise that we need to treat the body as a whole (body, mind
and soul). The concept of the Meridians is the focus point of many
therapies, such as Acupuncture where needles are inserted into points along
the Meridian lines to clear blockages, or Shiatsu being a more Japanese
form of finger massage along the Meridians. Chinese herbal medicine also
takes cognisance of these principles and philosophies in determining which
remedies will be most beneficial the realisation that feet play a
fundamental role in health and well-being. This course will introduce you
to the various conditions and disorders of the feet.

Having an insight into the Meridians from a more Western point of view and
applying our knowledge of pathophysiology at the same time, a different
picture emerges from which many of the questions unanswered in many
therapies can be solved. We start realizing why certain debilitating
diseases are on the increase in modern society and how we can combat these
diseases effectively. In addition to this, a clearer understanding can be
obtained as to why certain conditions often go hand-in-hand with one
another. For example, it will become evident why patients suffering from
Diabetes Mellitus are often also overweight, susceptible to gangrene and
have a tendency to seek attention and sympathy from others (Five Elements).
Typical symptoms such as thirst and heart palpitations, which only in
recent years have been recognized by Orthodox medicine, are also explained
according to the Meridians.

During this course you will investigate the Meridians in depth with
specific emphasis being placed on the application of pathophysiology. This
will prepare you to apply in-depth assessment skills towards patient
emotional behaviour.

Course 4: Emotional Behaviour using Chinese Five Elements Philosophy

Prior to our modern electronic societies, people who lived from the Earth understood the closeness and importance of Nature. As Nature all around them went through its natural process of change, they instinctively knew that the Nature “within” followed these same patterns. They watched and learned the Elements and knew that as Nature around them went through natural processes of change, the cycle of seasons also created changes within. Each Element is ever present and ever basic to life. All thinking, feeling and performances are done in accordance with Nature.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the relationship of the human being to nature is natural and the system of examination, diagnosis and treatment is based on natural processes. The concept of health follows laws natural in Life Energy (Chi’), natural in Nature. The existence of humanity and in fact all of Nature are dependent upon Chi’.

Chi’ is needed to move planets, making the Sun shine, the Wind blow and the Elements to be present. If Chi’ goes out of kilter it becomes basis of disease. Stress and stress related health problems are often blamed on conditions “outside” the body, rather than “looking” within. When in a healthy state, human beings should be able to feel and express all the emotions as appropriate. Every illness or imbalance is bound up with an emotion. The sound of our voice reflects our emotion.

Furthermore the Chinese believed that climate had a profound effect on our health and energy. During this course you will learn how the philosophy of the Five Elements takes us through the various behavioural patterns that emerge when our Meridians are congested and our anatomical organs are stressed from wrong life-style choices.

The most visible areas on our bodies that are not usually covered are our face, hands and feet. Making tactile assessments of these areas will enable therapists to ask probing questions about the patient’s case history and thereby give a more complete picture of the patient’s general health and well-being.

In many health professions we will often be presented with patients having bunions, corns, hammertoes, callous and nail disorders. In treating and understanding these feet conditions, the main stream medical profession will often blame the shape of our shoes.

The feet can be described as an architectural masterpiece as they can bear and balance the entire body weight of a person. It therefore stands to reason that many imbalances within the body can quite easily also manifest themselves in the feet in a more visual form, especially from a structural point of view. These tactile assessments are closely associated with the Meridians and the Five Elements. The Meridians found in the face, hands and feet are the key to revealing where imbalances lie and play a major role in the enhancement of general health and well-being. Furthermore, assessments in the feet also relate to the reflexes as found and understood in the science of Reflexology.

Course 6: Lifestyle Management

A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings" – Hippocrates.

As complementary health therapists, we use our skills, e.g. Reflexology, Massage, Acupuncture or other techniques to help stimulate the patient's body to “get rid of” toxic build-up that causes congestion and disease. With that in mind, it is important for us to also help our patients to understand their own responsibilities in maintaining their own good health.

Although we may think we do, many of us unfortunately do not have the slightest idea of how to truly maintain good health. When illness strikes, we rely on our medical system to "cure us”. The greatest healing, however, actually comes from within. Even if we take a prescription of tablets, it is ultimately our body that has to generate the chemical reaction, for better or for worse!

The human body has been provided with an incredible immune system. All we have to do is take good care of our own natural healing force which is available to us every second of our lives. Our modern lifestyles have, however, completely taken us off the right track. Fast, convenient and processed foods, alcohol abuse, smoking, caffeine and drug dependencies for headaches, insomnia, stress, depression, pain, constipation, muscle fatigue etc. are examples of the many products of an unhealthy lifestyle.

As a living individual we need to “re-learn” how to take responsibility of the present state of our existing health. This essentially involves us taking an active part in both our attitude (positive) and the maintenance of our body by learning more about nutrition.

This course will cover interesting discussion topics such as food, drug and supplement interaction, allergies and intolerances, weight management, stress, nutritional intake, exercise and many more. You will explore the lifecycle of modern day food and the dangers associated with, e.g. genetic modification, food irradiation and packaging. You will learn how to become healthy and understand, e.g. the warning signs and signals indicating a high acidic environment in the body. You will also cover important skills needed to become a good therapist, e.g. how to record a health profile of a patient and how to become a good listener. All in all – a very interesting and eye-opening course!

The classical Greek Athenian philosopher, Socrates, once said "There is only one good; knowledge, and one evil; ignorance".

Course 7: Practice Management

To many it may seem relatively easy to set up a practice, only to find out afterwards that they did not budget properly for everything they need or that they do not get the amount of patients they expected. This is due to poor planning and market research – two vital aspects to look at if you wish for your practice to succeed!

The main aim of this course is to help you formulate a workable business plan in which you investigate each aspect related to running a successful practice. By following the process as outlined step-by-step, you should cover every conceivable expense you may encounter - now or in the future.

This course aims to explain the primary reasons for starting a business (your practice) and the importance of conducting market research.

Remember that a Reflexology practice is based on the same principles as running any other self-employment business – market yourself, provide an efficient and reliable service and always plan ahead to avoid any surprises!

MODULE 4 - PATHOLOGY & PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Course 1: Anatomical & Physiological Functioning of the Body in a Diseased State

To understand pathology it is necessary to learn a new language. In order to understand and appropriately use this new language you will need a strong foundation of anatomy and physiology (Module 2).

Pathology is a very medical orientated look at what causes disease (aetiology), the host factors (e.g. age, race, genes), agents (e.g. bacteria, viruses, fungi), environmental factors (e.g. air pollution) and lifestyle factors (e.g. diet, exercise and rest). What we will not be able to look at, but what is equally important, is how each person responds to stressors of life and what the inner message of disease can be.

This Pathology & Pathophysiology course is divided into two parts. Part one incorporates general pathology while part two comprises of systemic pathology. General pathology covers the study of pathological or disease processes in general with particular reference to changes on a cellular level, while systemic pathology compartmentalises each system and looks at what diseases occur in that particular system. What is important to remember is that the body is a symphony of over 50 trillion living cells that work together in order to create homeostasis. No system works in isolation!

Important note: This course will NOT enable you to make a diagnosis. Diagnosing, as well as altering or commenting on Western medical treatment, is not in the scope of practice in this course.

Admission Criteria

Enrolment intakes

The modular structure allows for two enrolment intakes during an academic year for prospective students wishing to enter the diploma programme.

Applicants can either enter the programme with Module 1, Reflexology which starts in February, or applicants can enter the programme with Module 2, Anatomy & Physiology which starts August. Enrolment is open until commencement of the respective modules, or until the maximum class capacity (academic staff to learner ratios) has been reached. Students may enrol module per module as they progress through the programme and as such do not have to commit themselves and pay for the full programme at once.

General admission requirements

At the time of enrolment, the applicant must EITHER be:

In possession of a grade 12 certificate and/or equivalent (no university exemption required), OR

Must be at least 23 years of age, or older.

As the primary language of instruction used at IARAMT is English, applicants must be able to understand, speak, read and write in English.Management reserves the right to conduct a language proficiency test, if deemed necessary.

Admission procedure

The applicant will be required to complete and sign a General Registration Form. An Enrolment Form must be completed and signed accordingly upon enrolment for each module. Compliance with the institution’s General Admission Criteria and Admission Procedure does not provide applicants with an automatic right of admission to the programme. Final learner selection will be consonant with the Selection Criteria.

Tuition Fees

Once a student has enrolled in the programme, all tuition fees are fixed for each module for the full duration of the programme, i.e. two years, provided that the student does not postpone their studies in between modules and all modules are completed in normal succession.

There are no hidden/additional costs, besides the Starter Pack. All tuition fees include all study materials and postage costs (South Africa only).

All new students are required to purchase a Starter Pack* including an IARAMT school bag, a pair of “Reflex Feet”, a “Fresh Feet” spray and a “Rub ‘n Relief” crème. All these items will be required during the programme.

2017 Tuition Fees

Early-bird special for completed enrolments before 15 December 2017

*Starter Pack: R1,000.00

Prices are subject to a slight increase every year. All fees are non-negotiable. All fees are payable in South African Rands only.

MODULE

CREDITS

TUITION FEES

MODULE 1 - REFLEXOLOGY (1st Semester 2017)

80

R 18,000.00

MODULE 2 - ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (2nd Semester 2017)

40

R 12,000.00

MODULE 3 - THERAPEUTIC REFLEXOLOGY (1st Semester 2018)

80

R 18,000.00

MODULE 4 - PATHOLOGY & PATHOPHYSIOLOGY (2nd Semester 2018)

40

R 12,000.00

TOTAL

R 61,000.00*

Payment plans

Students have the option of either paying for all tuition fees upfront upon enrolment into a module, or entering into a Payment Contract.

When entering into a Payment Contract, a fixed deposit is payable upon enrolment. The balance of the tuitions fees will be split into a monthly instalment plan over the duration of the module. No interest or additional administration fees will be added, provided that the instalments are paid on time.

Distance E-Learning

Mode of instruction (Distance E-Learning)

The International Academy of Reflexology & Meridian Therapy officially delivers all the modules in our Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology via Distance E-Learning. All students will be granted access to the online Learning Management System (LMS) and must follow the lesson plans posted every week. As per regulations, compulsory knowledge and practical skills must be supported with “hands-on” tuition by qualified lecturers.

To meet this requirement, students are presented with the option of EITHER attending weekly tutoring sessions at the IARAMT Rivonia Campus, OR a compulsory workshop (five consecutive full days) per module (available in Johannesburg and Cape Town).

Distance E-Learning with weekly TUTORING SESSIONS

Weekly tutoring sessions are offered at our Rivonia Campus only. During
each tutoring session, our lecturers will revise the specific learning
outcomes and assessment criteria covered in the lesson plan for that
particular week.

Tutoring sessions for Module 1, Reflexology and
Module 2, Anatomy &
Physiology are scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays from 09:30 – 12:30 (3
hours each) throughout the duration of each module, excluding public and
school holidays.

Tutoring sessions for Module 3, Therapeutic Reflexology and Module 4, Pathology & Pathophysiology are scheduled on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 09:30 – 12:30 (3 hours each) throughout the duration of each module, excluding public and school holidays.

Students choosing to attend the weekly tutoring sessions must achieve an attendance record of at least 80% in order to be eligible for the assessments.

Distance E-Learning with a compulsory WORKSHOP

Due to other commitments or geographical restrictions, students may not
be able to attend the weekly tutoring sessions. In order to complete the
face-to-face tuition requirements, these students must attend a five (5)
day workshop scheduled during or at the end of each module.

Workshops are offered at our Rivonia Campus, as well as at selected venues
in Cape Town (depending on student numbers). Each day will start at 09:30
and end at 16:30-17:00. The workshops focus heavily on the competency of
the knowledge and practical skills that should be acquired during each
module. All practical and written assessments will be completed during the
workshops.

Attendance is compulsory for all days in order to be eligible for the
assessments.

Modes of Assessment

Formative assessment

Otherwise known as continuous assessment and refers to assessment that takes place during the process of teaching and learning. The main purpose of formative assessment is to support learning and ensure continuing progress towards the learning outcomes. Formative assessment may vary per module and will mostly consist of activities and assignments.

Summative assessment

Otherwise known as formal assessment and is used to make a judgement about learner achievement at the end of a particular chapter(s), course, module and/or programme. Summative assessment may vary per module and may consist of written, oral and/or practical assessments, or a combination of either and/or all.

Integrated assessment

Assesses the learner’s ability to combine key foundational, practical and reflexive competencies with some critical cross field learning outcomes and apply these in a practical context for a defined purpose. Integrated assessment will typically consist of the case studies. Learners are required to complete 200 hours of case studies during the 2-year programme.

Exemption and Recognised Prior Learning

Exemption

Applicants may apply for full exemption for Module 2, Anatomy & Physiology and/or Module 4, Pathology & Pathophysiology on basis of a similar or higher medical qualification (NQF level 5 or higher) completed at a recognised tertiary institution. The applicant will be requested to include a proof of certification and a detailed curriculum outline of the subjects completed with their application.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL):

IARAMT recognises the value of informal learning, e.g. knowledge and skills acquired during practical work experience, and as such may grant Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) for Module 1, Reflexology and/or parts thereof provided that the guidelines, principles and criteria for application and award of RPL are fully met.

As the qualification offered by IARAMT is a professional programme, the RPL assessment process may become complex in order to ensure that the applicant is fully competent in the required knowledge and core skills. The assessment of applicants is done against the same assessment criteria and exit level outcomes as for enrolled students.

The RPL assessment process will consist of a series of summative assessments, both written and practical, and designed to test the fundamental knowledge and core skill competencies of the applicants.

Calendar

Module 1, Reflexology starts on the 12th February, 2018

Enrollment will close once the module has commenced, or when the maximum class capacities have been reached. A grace period for late admissions may be granted at the discretion of the Management Committee.